Episode 376: Brittain Ladd

By Lori Taylor

Jan 14, 2026

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Summary:

In this episode of The Produce Moms Podcast, host Lori Taylor discusses grocery retail trends and insights with Brittain Ladd, a recognized expert in the field. They explore the impact of Amazon’s acquisition of Whole Foods, the challenges facing Kroger, and the potential political aspirations of Walmart’s Doug McMillan. The conversation also delves into the role of AI and self-driving cars in grocery shopping, the disruption caused by delivery services like DoorDash and Uber Eats, and the competitive landscape of retailers like Aldi and Costco. Brittain shares his predictions for the future of grocery retail, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changing consumer preferences and leveraging technology.

Takeaways:

  • Brittain Ladd is a recognized expert in grocery retail trends.
  • Amazon’s acquisition of Whole Foods was a pivotal moment in grocery retail.
  • Whole Foods needs to adapt its format to compete effectively.
  • Kroger is facing significant challenges and leadership changes.
  • Doug McMillan of Walmart may run for president in the future.
  • AI is changing how consumers interact with grocery shopping.
  • Self-driving cars could revolutionize grocery logistics.
  • DoorDash and Uber Eats are major disruptors in grocery delivery.
  • Aldi is expanding rapidly while Lidl struggles in the US market.
  • Costco’s strategy focuses on catering to diverse customer bases.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Grocery Trends and Insights

01:50 Brittain Ladd’s Background and Amazon’s Acquisition of Whole Foods

03:40 The Future of Grocery Retail: Amazon vs. Walmart

08:09 Kroger’s Leadership Changes and Challenges

11:22 Doug McMillan: A Potential Presidential Candidate?

17:03 The Impact of AI on Grocery Shopping

23:09 The Rise of Food Delivery Services and Grocery Retail

26:19 The Future of Grocery Retailing

30:00 Retailer Insights: Aldi, Lidl, and Beyond

33:45 Regional Grocery Giants: HEB, Publix, and Wegmans

38:05 Club Store Dynamics: Costco vs. Sam’s Club

42:51 The Evolution of Private Labels and Consumer Preferences

49:02 The Role of Technology in Grocery Shopping

51:01 The Shift Towards Fresh Produce and Healthier Eating

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About Lori

Lori Taylor is the Founder & CEO of The Produce Moms. For ten years she sold fresh produce to over 300 grocery stores throughout the United States, and today she is fully focused on working with the produce supply chain, media, and government to increase fresh produce access & consumption in the US and around the globe. Connect with Lori on LinkedIn.

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